In addition to the popular Anyelas Vineyards in nearby Skaneateles, Syracuse has such a wealth of local breweries it has actually created a Beer Trail that groups can enjoy, linking seven of the city’s brewpubs and taverns. Here are some of the can’t-miss stops along the way.
Launched in 1991, the Syracuse Suds Factory helped return locally brewed beer to Syracuse after a 30-year gap. The establishment is located in Armory Square and prides itself on being the first brewery in Syracuse in decades to commercially ship its brews to other outlets.
A full suit of armor greets visitors in the stone-lined hallway to the tasting room of Middle Ages Brewing Co., setting the tone for this British-themed pub. Opened in the mid-’90s, Middle Ages offers handcrafted ales brewed in the style of old England. The establishment uses malted barley imported from Suffolk, England to maintain the proper flavors and authenticity.
Armory Square’s Empire Brewing Company is a hip downtown bar and grill with an acclaimed brewery on-site. Visitors enjoy having the microbrewery and kitchen in full view, and the brewpub sources local ingredients as part of its award-winning sustainability efforts.
Other possibilities include Kitty Hoynes, a true Irish pub where Guinness draft is the drink of choice; Coleman’s Authentic Irish Pub, a favorite local watering hole since 1933; and J. Ryans Pub, boasting 69 brews on tap.
